NEW YORK—Tom Johnson, currently co-president and head of the mergers and acquisitions business at Abernathy MacGregor, has been named chief executive officer of the corporate and financial communications specialist. He will continue to oversee the firm’s M&A activities, including a large shareholder activism practice. 

James Abernathy will step full-time into the role of executive chairman and will continue to engage in client work and advise on select firm-related matters in addition to serving as chairman of AMO, the global partnership of financial communications firms led by Abernathy MacGregor, Maitland in the UK and C&O in Paris.

Chuck Burgess, president, has worked closely with Johnson over the last few years to help guide and grow the firm, and will oversee and manage several special projects for Abernathy MacGregor in addition to his current firm and client responsibilities. 

Carina Davidson remains in her role as chief operating officer, and Ian Campbell—who oversees the Los Angeles and Houston operations—and Jim MacGregor remain in their roles as vice chairmen.